The first two Sonic the Hedgehog films have proven to be some of the best video game adaptations to date, combining fun storytelling and endearing characterization with enough respect to the source material to satisfy fans of the franchise. This third installment not only continues this saga’s winning streak, but it is arguably the best out of the three. The chemistry between Sonic, Tails and Knuckles remains entertaining and the wacky antics of Jim Carrey playing two Robotniks this time around had me crying laughing in the theater. However, what made this installment stand out from the others was a relatively darker narrative with the inclusion of Sonic’s infamous rival, Shadow the Hedgehog. Voiced exceptionally by Keanu Reeves, everything about Shadow seems as if it was ripped straight from the games, with his brooding personality and dark backstory carrying most of the film’s emotional undertones. Needless to say, me and the Sonic fans in the theater with me had the biggest smiles on our faces watching this film. The entertaining performances and the action set pieces alone are worth a recommendation to non-Sonic fans as well, and with a fourth film already in the works, I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next. Hint: Definitely stay during the credits. Score: 8/10
Noah Robinson 